This International Standard applies to Spectroscopy-based alarming Personal Radiation Detectors (SPRD) which represent a new instrument category between alarming Personal Radiation Devices (PRD) and Radionuclide Identification Devices (RID). SPRDs are advanced PRDs that can be worn on a belt or in a pocket to alert the wearer of the presence of a radiation source. They are not intended for accurate measurement of personal or ambient dose equivalent (rate). In addition to the features of conventional PRDs, SPRDs provide rapid simultaneous search and identification capability to locate and identify radiation sources. They can discriminate innocent alarms such as Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORM) or medical radionuclides against industrial sources or Special Nuclear Material (SNM). Because of their limited sensitivity, SPRDs cannot replace RIDs. For first responders, SPRDs can be particularly useful for immediate response measures.

This standard does not apply to the performance of radiation protection instrumentation which is covered in IEC 61526 and IEC 62401.

The object of this standard is to establish performance requirements, provide examples of acceptable test methods and to specify general characteristics, general test conditions, radiological, environmental, mechanical and electromagnetic characteristics that are used to determine if an instrument meets the requirements of this standard. The results of tests performed provide information to end-users and manufacturers on instrument capability for reliable detection, localization and identification of radiation sources.

Obtaining operating performance that meets or exceeds the specifications as stated in this standard depends upon properly establishing appropriate operating parameters, maintaining calibration, implementing a suitable maintenance program, auditing compliance with quality control requirements and providing proper training for operating personnel.